Canada has issued a new travel advisory warning its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Nigeria due to the country’s persistent security challenges.
The notice, updated on 24 November and published on the government’s website, cites growing concerns linked to terrorism, crime, kidnapping and violence.
The advisory says the guidance applies nationwide, including Abuja, but excludes Lagos and Calabar where travellers are urged to exercise what it calls “a high degree of caution” due to crime.
It adds that “the security situation throughout the country remains unpredictable,” highlighting frequent demonstrations, security operations and curfews.
High-Risk and No-Travel Zones
Canada has placed several states in the “avoid all travel” category due to heightened threats. These include:
- Northwest: Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara
- Northcentral: Plateau, Niger, Kogi
- Northeast: Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Taraba, Yobe
- Niger Delta (except Port Harcourt): Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, Rivers
- Border areas: Within 10 kilometres of Cameroon, Niger and northern Benin
The government says these regions face frequent armed attacks, inter-communal clashes and kidnappings. It warns that foreign nationals are often targeted, sometimes by individuals posing as security agents.
Rising Crime and Kidnapping Risks
Criminal activity remains a major concern in Lagos and other urban centres. The advisory lists incidents such as petty theft, armed robbery, home invasions, carjackings and burglaries, often linked to organised groups.
Kidnapping continues to spread across northern, northeastern and southern parts of the country. Canada notes that affluent neighbourhoods in Lagos and nearby states have also seen cases involving foreign travellers.
Terrorism and Public Safety Warnings
The travel alert says there is a “threat of terrorism throughout Nigeria,” pointing to attacks on security forces, public venues, transport systems, places of worship and government buildings. It warns that attacks may occur around political events, religious holidays or major public gatherings.
Road travel is described as dangerous due to poor conditions, robberies and criminal checkpoints. Travellers are advised to avoid driving at night, stay alert at checkpoints and avoid stopping in isolated areas.
Other Risks and Travel Considerations
Public transport, including taxis and ridesharing services, is considered unsafe due to robbery and assault risks. The advisory also cites piracy in coastal waters, fuel shortages, power outages and widespread fraud involving ATMs, online platforms and social media.
Canada warns that 2SLGBTQI+ travellers may face discrimination or prosecution under Nigerian law, while women travelling alone may encounter harassment. It adds that visas remain mandatory and urges dual citizens to travel with valid Nigerian passports.
The notice includes health alerts on measles, polio and diphtheria, and recommends that travellers update routine vaccinations. It urges Canadians in Nigeria to stay vigilant, follow local news and obey instructions from Nigerian authorities.
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